What is Advising?
Undergraduate Advising Center (UAC) advising is a proactive teaching and learning experience between you and your advisor that encourages you to think critically about your time at MIT. It’s more than just course selection—it’s a mutually collaborative relationship built on respect, support, and student empowerment. Advising is designed to help you develop an individualized path through the curriculum, one that aligns with your academic, personal, and professional goals. The UAC is a team of professional advisors and our mission is to help you reach your full potential by offering individualized, holistic advising through graduation.
[Download Advising Syllabus link here]
Advising at MIT
MIT advising differs in a student’s first year versus subsequent years. First-year students have not declared a major; therefore, their academic department is the Office of the First Year. First-year advisors are a group of volunteer faculty and professional advising staff. Students are advised in a traditional advising role, learning communities, or advising seminars.
After declaring a major, students are assigned a faculty advisor in their academic department. Department timelines vary, but all students are assigned a faculty advisor by mid to late August before their sophomore year.
Role of Undergraduate Advising Center (UAC) Advisors
At the UAC, we recognize that every student is unique, and we aim to provide a space where you can openly express your concerns, ask questions, and explore opportunities. Our advisors are here to listen, guide, and connect you to the right resources, whether you’re choosing courses, seeking experiential learning options, or exploring campus activities. Your UAC Advisor is a consistent support resource throughout your time at MIT, regardless of any changes to your major or academic department.
Expectations and Outcomes
Your advisor partnership is designed to help you think critically about your goals and how to make the most of your academic journey. Through active participation in the advising process, you’ll have the opportunity to identify and engage in curricular and co-curricular activities that are meaningful to you. UAC Advisors play a key role in guiding you to reflect on the knowledge you’ve gained, supporting you in setting goals, and encouraging self-inquiry and self-assessment. Together, we will create a personalized path that reflects your academic, personal, and professional aspirations.
Typical Advising Cycle
| Month | Advising Activity |
|---|---|
| August | • Registration opens for current academic year • Meeting with faculty advisor to register for classes |
| September | • Registration Day • First day of fall classes • Registration deadline for fall semester |
| October | • Add Date • October UAC Check In Meeting |
| November | • Drop Date • November/December UAC Check In Meeting |
| December | • Pre-reg for IAP and spring semester begins • Last day of classes • Final exams |
| January | • Spring pre-reg deadline • Registration week • Meeting with faculty advisor to register for classes |
| February | • First day of spring classes |
| March | • Add Date • March/April UAC Check In Meeting |
| April | • Drop Date • Connect with your UAC Advisor event |
| May | • Pre-reg for fall and summer sessions • Last day of classes • Final exams • Commencement |
| June | • Summer registration opens |
Advising Resources
Student Success ToolkitGoal Setting:
Academic Success:
- Time management & academic success tips
Personal and Professional Success:
- Email templates for UROP search and professional correspondence
- Preparing for Fall Advising & Building Authentic Faculty Relationships